Search form

Search

Hell Roaring Creek Trail

Length: 5 miles (round-trip)

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

Difficulty: Easy

Elevation Gain: 500 feet

Activities: Hiking, trail running

Crowds: Moderate traffic

AboutThis trail is across the Gallatin River from Storm Castle Peak, partially in Gallatin National Forest and partially in Lee Metcalf Wilderness. Hell Roaring Creek is a tributary of the Gallatin, flowing southwest through Spanish Peaks to its drainage point at Hell Roaring Lake. The trail parallels its namesake creek, past waterfalls and pools. Its most popular turn-around point is where Gallatin National Forest reaches Lee Metcalf at 2.5 miles.

Other RoutesThis trail leads to several others within the Spanish Peaks and Lee Metcalf trails systems. Take a map along if you intend to keep trekking. When you reach a fork at Hell Roaring Creek, bear left to continue along the south fork of Hell Roaring Creek to Hell Roaring Lake and Table Mountain. Bear right at the fork to continue along the north fork toward Gallatin Peak and Summit Lake. Carry bear spray.

Seasonal ConditionsThis trail stays wet into the spring, but makes a pleasant, solitary winter hike. It's also a popular spot among back-country skiers.

DirectionsFrom downtown Bozeman, head west on Huffine Ln. toward Four Corners. From there, take a left onto Hwy. 191 toward Big Sky and drive 18.4 miles. Turn right at the Hell Roaring Creek trailhead (1.7 miles past Squaw Creek Rd.) on the right.